EA Sports FC 25: The Return of the Kickoff Goal Technique and How to Counter It

In the world of football video games, one technique that seems to resurface every year is the kickoff goal. Players consistently find ways to exploit the mechanics during the kickoff, scoring easy goals within the first few seconds of play. This year, EA Sports FC 25 is no exception. This article will not only explain how the kickoff goal technique works but also provide tips on how to effectively counter it.

What is the Kickoff Goal Technique in EA Sports FC 25?

The kickoff goal technique in EA Sports FC 25 allows players to score almost immediately after the start of a half or after conceding a goal. This strategy is primarily built on the predictable behavior of the game’s AI, which can be manipulated to leave the defense vulnerable.

When the kickoff occurs, the AI-controlled players naturally drift towards your half of the pitch, leaving exploitable gaps. This shift opens the door for a well-timed attack, which allows players to score a goal quickly. Unfortunately, this technique feels unfair because the defending player has little direct influence over the AI’s behavior, making it feel more like exploiting a game flaw than showcasing skill.

Despite its effectiveness, this tactic is widely regarded as unsportsmanlike, especially in competitive online matches. Most players would advise you to limit the use of the kickoff goal to offline modes like Squad Battles or Drafts, where you’re up against the AI. Using this technique against other players will not win you any friends and could lead to frustrating experiences.

How Does the Kickoff Goal Technique Work in EA Sports FC 25 ?

The kickoff goal technique is designed to lure AI-controlled players out of position, creating an opportunity for a quick counter-attack. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

1. Initial Pass: The play begins with a pass from your midfield to an attacking midfielder, commonly referred to as the CAM (Central Attacking Midfielder or MOC).
2. Sending the Striker Forward: Once the CAM receives the ball, the first step is to send your striker deep into the opponent’s half using a through ball command (L1/LB + Triangle/Y).
3. Midfield Pass: The CAM then passes the ball to a central midfielder (CM), moving the ball forward while continuing to drag the AI-controlled defenders further out of position.
4. Return the Ball to the CAM: After briefly passing the ball to the CM, it is quickly returned to the CAM.
5. Long Through Ball: Now that the CAM has regained possession, the next move is a long through ball aimed at the space between the opposing defenders and their goalkeeper. This ball is typically executed using the same L1/LB + Triangle/Y combination, with the strength of the pass perfectly timed to land between the backline and the goalie.
6. Finishing the Goal: The striker, having already been sent deep into the attacking zone, collects the through ball and finishes the play by scoring. Because the AI defenders are already out of position and your striker has built momentum, it’s often a matter of a simple tap past the goalkeeper.

This sequence happens fast, giving the defending player little time to react. If executed well, the attacking player can score a goal within seconds of the kickoff.

How to Counter the Kickoff Goal Technique in EA Sports FC 25

While the kickoff goal technique is undeniably frustrating, it’s not unbeatable. With the right approach, you can reduce the risk of conceding and even turn the tables on your opponent. Here are some practical tips to help you counter the kickoff goal technique:

1. Position Your Defense

One of the simplest ways to combat this technique is to adjust your defensive line at kickoff. Make sure your defenders are not overly aggressive and maintain a conservative stance. By pulling your center-backs a little deeper at the start of the kickoff, you can prevent the striker from exploiting the gap between your defenders and your goalkeeper.

2. Manually Control Your Goalkeeper

If you notice that your opponent is setting up for a kickoff goal, it’s important to take control of your goalkeeper as soon as possible. By pressing Triangle/Y (depending on your console), you can manually bring your goalkeeper off the line to narrow the space between him and the incoming through ball. This can either allow your goalkeeper to reach the ball first or at least force the striker to take an awkward shot, reducing their chance of scoring.

3. Watch for the CAM’s Movements

As mentioned earlier, the attacking midfielder (CAM) is a key player in executing this technique. The ball passes through the CAM twice during the sequence, which gives you an opportunity to intercept the ball or apply pressure. Anticipate the pass back to the CAM and try to cut off the play before the long through ball is delivered.

4. Read the Through Ball

If the through ball is mistimed or not perfectly placed, your defenders can capitalize on the mistake. Keep an eye on your opponent’s timing. If they send the ball too far back or fail to time the through ball correctly, your defense will have time to recover and clear the ball.

5. Foul as a Last Resort

Although fouling is generally discouraged, in situations where your opponent is about to complete the kickoff goal sequence, committing a tactical foul might be the better option. If you’re slightly late to intercept the ball or block the through pass, fouling the CAM or the striker in a non-dangerous area can stop the play and allow your defense to reset. While this is not an ideal solution, it’s better than conceding an easy goal.

Conclusion

The kickoff goal technique in EA Sports FC 25 is an age-old strategy that continues to frustrate players each year. While it’s undeniably effective in taking advantage of AI behavior, it is often seen as unfair play, especially in online matches. That said, by understanding how the technique works and applying the defensive strategies outlined above, you can mitigate its effectiveness and improve your chances of stopping your opponent from scoring right after kickoff.

So, next time you encounter a player attempting this method, remember to stay calm, position your defense wisely, and be ready to take manual control of your goalkeeper. By doing so, you’ll not only neutralize the threat but also force your opponent to rely on more traditional methods to score.